Make this the season you and your family explore new territory. Try a new sport, check out an unfamiliar destination or sample a different travel style.
Here are six ideas to jump start your innovative planning:
1.Try an all inclusive resort. As the name implies, food, lodging and most activities are all included in one price. At Club Med properties in Sandpiper, Florida; La Caravelle, Guadeloupe; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Cancún Yucatán and Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico, kids 15 years and under stay free with a paying adult from February 14 through October 30, 2009. Book before February 28, 2009. Contact: www.ClubMed.com; 800-CLUBMED.
2. Learn to Skate Ski - This hybrid sport combines cross country skiing with the graceful glide used in ice skating. You’ll strap on shorter, skinnier and lighter skis as you prepare to get your heart beating on snow-covered trails across the country. Most cross country ski trails are accessible for skate skiing. Contact: http://gorp.away.com/gorp/activity/skiing/ski_cros.htm
3. Go camping – Pitch a tent in your backyard or in a National Park. Cook over an open stove, hike, fish, and ogle wildlife. Roast marshmallows, breathe deeply and admire wildflowers. Contact: GoCampingAmerica.com.
4. Corral the gang at a dude ranch -Since 1926, the Dude Ranchers' Association has been matching families with the right ranch vacation destination. Choose from more than 100 top notch and authentic ranches where the whole family can ride, wrangle or simply relax in beautiful settings throughout the American and Canadian west. Order a free 2009 directory. Contact: www.DudeRanch.org; 866-399-2339.
5. Become in tourist in your own town - Explore all those nearby nooks and crannies that you’ve never made time to visit. Take in free concerts, enjoy a walking tour, try a new restaurant. Research the options, then create an itinerary that will make you feel like you’ve gone the distance without breaking the bank. Contact your local convention and visitor’s bureau for deals, discounts and suggested outings.
6. Pick a new hobby. Become stamp collectors, bird watchers, hikers, leaf collectors, gardeners, star gazers or train buffs. Learn about ghost towns, organic farming, far away canyons or vanishing species. Then see how the newfound knowledge will lead you and your family on unexpected adventures.
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